This powerful verse begs the question: What foundation is your marriage built on? You may be saying, "Hey, we've been married for years, isn't it a little late to be working on the foundation?" No! When you build a house, you definitely want to pour the foundation before you go ahead with the framing, plumbing, electrical, drywall, and paint. But few of us started our marriages with that kind of forethought. No matter where we are in our marriage, we need to daily reinforce, solidify, and fortify the foundation on which we stand.
Gary and I have a "rock collection" that forms the cornerstone of our marriage foundation. There are three rocks in our collection. The first rock was big enough to cover the opening of the most famous tomb in history, but it didn't stay there. It was the rock that was rolled away to reveal the triumphant resurrection of Jesus Christ. Because Christ is alive, we have the hope that extends throughout life and into eternity. As a result, our lives and our marriage have a meaning that is spiritual as well as physical and emotional.
The second rock is small enough to hold in my hand. That rock is the one Gary held as he accepted Christ into his life in 1973. He placed this significant piece of concrete in my jewelry box as a reminder that our personal relationships with Jesus are vital to a growing and healthy marriage.
The third rock is broad enough and strong enough to support our marriage and yours. If we follow God's plan for our marriage, as found in His Word, we are equipped for a strong marriage. When Gary and I selflessly and sacrificially love as Christ loved us, our relationship thrives; but just the opposite happens when we get selfish and prideful. Many don't think about this portion of the foundation until the storms hit.
We implore you to build your marriage on the foundation that will stand strong whether you're being overwhelmed by the storms of life or experiencing marital bliss. The daily fortification of our marriage foundation is a direct result of our daily obedience to God's plan for marriage.
What is the present condition of your marriage foundation? Your marriage foundation needs all three "rocks": the rock of Christ's resurrection, the rock of your personal commitment to Christ, and the rock of daily obedience to God's Word. You can't pick and choose; it's a package deal. If you want to guard your heart and home against the assaults on your marriage and family, you need a complete foundation. We challenge you to acknowledge that serving God individually and as a couple is your most important purpose in life.
© 2003 America's Family Coaches
Married 28 years, the parents of two adult daughters and one grandson, Dr. Gary and Barbara Rosberg have a unique blend of insight and wisdom that touch people of all ages. Together with Gary's 25,000 hours of counseling experience and Barbara's gift of encouragement and biblical teaching, they are America's Family Coaches, equipping thousands of families across the nation through their interactive daily radio program, conferences, and marriage and family resources.
